There’s something special about summertime gatherings—the sunshine, the sound of laughter, and a cold, fruity drink in hand. Thanks so much for stopping by! If you’re searching for the ultimate tropical cocktail that captures the fun and flavor of summer, you’ve just found it. This Malibu Watermelon Rum Punch is a sweet, fizzy, coconut-kissed drink that bursts with juicy watermelon and is made for sipping under the sun.
What Is Malibu Watermelon Rum Punch?
This vibrant summer punch is pure tropical bliss in a glass. It starts with watermelon-flavored gelatin, which gives it a beautiful blush color and a smooth, slightly thick consistency that’s playful and refreshing. Next, we mix in Malibu Coconut Rum to bring that signature creamy coconut flavor, blend it with tropical pineapple juice, and either watermelon juice or a sparkling watermelon soda. A splash of lime juice ties it all together with a zesty finish.
Unlike most rum punches, this version has a silky body thanks to the gelatin, keeping the drink chilled longer and giving it a fun texture. Served over ice with fresh garnishes—think mint, lime slices, and watermelon wedges—it’s as pretty as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Tropical Punch
This isn’t just a summer cocktail—it’s a whole vibe. Perfect for backyard barbecues, bridal showers, pool parties, or laid-back weekends, this punch checks all the boxes. Here’s why it stands out:
- It’s a crowd-pleaser with bright, fruity island flavors.
- The recipe scales easily for any group, big or small.
- Its gorgeous rosy color and fresh garnishes make it visually stunning.
- The combo of coconut, watermelon, and pineapple is both nostalgic and refreshing.
- You can adjust the sweetness, strength, or sparkle to suit your guests.
And the best part? It’s fun and different. The watermelon gelatin adds a smooth, cool texture that keeps everyone coming back for more.
What Makes This Punch So Practical
There’s more to love than just the flavor. This cocktail is party-friendly and stress-free:
- No blender or fancy tools required.
- You can prep it ahead of time—so you can enjoy the party too!
- It’s totally customizable: change the juices, adjust the alcohol, or make a mocktail version.
- It holds up well in a punch bowl without separating or getting watery.
- It pairs perfectly with all your summer favorites—from grilled dishes to fruity desserts.
Once you serve this punch, you’ll find yourself making it again and again—it’s that good!
Malibu Watermelon Rum Punch Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Malibu Watermelon Rum Punch is your go-to summer party drink! It’s sweet, coconut-kissed, and bursting with juicy watermelon flavor, balanced with tropical pineapple and a fizzy finish. Made with a surprising gelatin base for body and smoothness, it’s easy to prep ahead and guaranteed to wow your guests with both flavor and presentation. Garnish with fresh lime, mint, and watermelon for a punch that’s as stunning as it is refreshing!
Ingredients
1 box (3 oz) watermelon-flavored gelatin
1 cup boiling water
1½ cups cold water
1½ cups Malibu Coconut Rum
2 cups watermelon juice or sparkling watermelon soda
1½ cups pineapple juice
1–2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (optional, for brightness)
Ice
Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
Lime slices, for garnish
Watermelon wedges, for garnish
Instructions
Make the gelatin base:
In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the watermelon gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until fully dissolved, then add 1½ cups cold water. Let the mixture cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes.Build the punch:
In a large punch bowl or drink dispenser, combine the cooled gelatin mixture, Malibu Coconut Rum, pineapple juice, lime juice (if using), and watermelon juice or soda. Stir until well mixed.Chill:
Refrigerate the punch for at least 1 hour, or add a generous amount of ice just before serving.
Garnish and serve:
Add lime slices, fresh mint, and small watermelon wedges to the punch for color and freshness. Serve over ice in punch glasses. Optional: Rim glasses with lime juice and dip in sugar for a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
Want it extra fizzy? Use sparkling watermelon soda and top off with lemon-lime soda just before serving.
For a mocktail version, skip the rum and replace with coconut water or a coconut-flavored soda.
This punch is easy to scale—double or triple for larger crowds.
Chill your ingredients beforehand for the coldest, most refreshing result.
Leftovers? Store in a covered pitcher in the fridge for up to 2 days. Stir before serving again.
Alcohol: Approximately 1.5 ounces of Malibu Coconut Rum
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Drinks / Cocktails
- Method: Stirred
- Cuisine: American, Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approx. 8 oz)
- Calories: ~180 kcal
- Sugar: ~18 g
- Sodium: ~10 mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~20 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: Malibu rum punch, summer cocktail, watermelon rum drink, tropical party punch
Bring bold flavor to brunch with the Classic Bloody Mary
Tools You’ll Need
Large mixing bowl
Whisk or spoon
Measuring cups
Large punch bowl or drink dispenser
Serving glasses
Optional: Plates and sugar for rimming glasses
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
This recipe is extremely forgiving and fun to experiment with. Here are a few popular variations:
Watermelon juice substitute: You can use strawberry juice, berry soda, or even pink lemonade. Sparkling watermelon soda is especially fun if you want extra fizz.
Rum options: While Malibu Coconut Rum is the classic choice here, you can substitute white rum for a stronger kick or even use flavored rum like Malibu Watermelon for a double dose of that fruity goodness.
Juice variations: Mango juice, guava nectar, or passionfruit juice can be used in place of pineapple for a twist on the tropical theme.
Mocktail version: Skip the rum and use coconut water or coconut-flavored soda to keep that tropical flair. You could even freeze the gelatin mix into cubes for a fun texture twist.—savory, spicy, and always a conversation starter at any morning gathering.
How to Make Malibu Watermelon Rum Punch
Step 1: Make the Jello Concentrate
Start the flavor party with a fun twist! In a large bowl, pour one cup of boiling water over the watermelon gelatin and stir until fully dissolved. Then, mix in 1½ cups of cold water to cool things down. Let it sit for 10 minutes at room temp—this sets the stage for a silky-smooth punch base that won’t turn to jelly.
Step 2: Build the Punch Base
Ready to mix? Pour your cooled gelatin into a punch bowl or drink dispenser. Add Malibu Coconut Rum, pineapple juice, and your choice of watermelon juice or soda. Want a citrusy zing? Add lime juice now. Stir it all together until you’ve got one vibrant, tropical blend.
Step 3: Chill and Prepare for Serving
Time to chill—literally! Pop the punch into the fridge for at least an hour, or toss in lots of ice to serve sooner. Right before the party starts, splash in extra sparkling soda for a fizzy, refreshing finish.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Dress it up! Add lime slices, fresh mint sprigs, and watermelon wedges right into the bowl. Serve over ice in short glasses, and if you’re feeling fancy, rim each glass with lime juice and sugar for a sweet, sparkly touch.
What to Serve With This Tropical Punch
This punch is a perfect match for summery bites! Try it with:
- Grilled shrimp or chicken skewers with tropical marinades
- Mini pulled pork sliders with pineapple slaw
- Fresh fruit skewers drizzled with honey-lime
- Tortilla chips with mango salsa or pineapple guacamole
- Sweet treats like key lime bars, coconut cupcakes, or mango sorbet
Add a touch of Italian sunshine with the Amalfi Martini—a zesty blend of limoncello and vodka that’s made for summer soirées and golden hour sipping.
Tips for the Best Malibu Rum Punch
- Chill all your ingredients ahead of time to keep the punch cooler longer.
- Don’t skip the gelatin—it gives the punch a luxurious texture!
- Add ice right before serving so it doesn’t water down the flavor.
- Keep garnishes fresh—mint and lime add both beauty and a flavor boost.
- Making a big batch? Taste as you go to keep the balance just right.
How to Store Leftovers
Got punch left? Pour it into a sealed pitcher and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The gelatin may thicken slightly, but a quick stir brings it back to life. Skip the freezer—alcohol and gelatin don’t mix well with freezing temps. If you’re serving again later, keep garnishes separate and refresh them before round two.
Join the Celebration
Tried this Malibu Watermelon Rum Punch? I’d love to see it! Tag your drink photos and party setup on Pinterest, and leave a review below. I can’t wait to see your version of this tropical crowd-pleaser!